BRYANT PARK PRESENTS NEW MUSIC SERIES FEATURING ARTISTS COMMISSIONED BY CHAMBER MUSIC AMERICA

For Immediate Release

Contact: Joseph J. Carella

(212) 262-8800

BRYANT PARK PRESENTS NEW MUSIC SERIES FEATURING ARTISTSCOMMISSIONED BY CHAMBER MUSIC AMERICA

Classical and jazz musicians who’ve been awarded grants by Chamber Music America (CMA) will perform their commissioned ensemble works every Friday evening in Bryant Park from July 12 to August 30 at 6 PM. The eight performances, free to the public, take place near the eastern edge of the lawn.

CMA defines chamber music as music composed for small ensembles, with one musician per part, generally performed without a conductor. The term once referred only to Western classical music for small ensembles, such as string quartets. But today chamber music encompasses myriad forms, including contemporary and traditional jazz, classical, and world genres.

“Supporting the creation of new work has been a hallmark of Chamber Music America for over 30 years,” commented Margaret M. Lioi, CEO of Chamber Music America. “We are thrilled to partner with Bryant Park to showcase eight of our accomplished grantees in one of New York City’s most iconic locations, and look forward to introducing these wonderful compositions to New York City audiences.”

The complete schedule:

FFEARJuly 12The “Forum for Electro-Acoustic Research” blurs the boundaries between classical and jazz with its funky, earthy, visceral and emotional work.Commission: Mirage (2009)

Le Boeuf BrothersJuly 19Remy and Pascal Le Boeuf represent a new breed of young artists that continuously push the definition of jazz.Commission: A Dream: The Musical Imagination of Franz Kafka (2011)

Enso String QuartetAugust 9The Grammy-nominated Enso String Quartet, equally at home with the classics and new music, performs with artful mastery and glorious sound.Commission: Following Franz, Now by Kurt Stallman (2011)

Matt Wilson’s Carl Sandburg ProjectAugust 16Grammy-nominee Matt Wilson and his jazz ensemble create music that is fresh, full of life and in the moment.Commission: The Carl Sandburg Project (2001)

Dorian Wind QuintetAugust 30The legendary Dorian Wind Quintet has performed its dramatic repertoire from the Baroque to new music in concert halls around the world

Commission: Belgian Bliss by David Del Tredici (2011)

Funding for the commissioning programs of Chamber Music America is provided by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation.

Chamber Music America,the national network of chamber music professionals, was founded in 1977 to develop and strengthen the chamber music community. With a membership of over 6,000, including musicians, ensembles, presenters, artists’ managers, educators, music businesses, and advocates of ensemble music, CMA welcomes and represents a wide range of musical styles and traditions. CMA provides its members with grant programs, consulting services, access to health and instrument insurance, conferences, seminars and several publications, including Chamber Music magazine. www.chamber-music.org.

Bryant Park Corporation (BPC),a private not-for-profit company, was founded in 1980 to renovate, finance and operate Bryant Park. BPC is funded by income from events, concessions and corporate sponsors, as well as an assessment on neighboring properties, and does not accept government or philanthropic funds. In addition to providing security and sanitation services, and tending the park’s lush lawn and gardens, BPC provides public amenities and activities, including movable chairs and tables, café umbrellas, restrooms, restaurants and food kiosks, and many exciting events throughout the year. www.bryantpark.org.